tag:djsandmcs.com,2005:/blogs/dj-authorityDJ Authority2023-04-22T01:24:24-07:00DJs AND MCs, LLCfalsetag:djsandmcs.com,2005:Post/71949952023-04-22T01:24:24-07:002024-03-04T18:03:24-08:00Top Graduation Songs<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust:auto;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;caret-color:rgb(0, 0, 0);color:rgb(0, 0, 0);font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;orphans:auto;text-align:start;text-decoration:none;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:auto;word-spacing:0px;"><div class="flex-1 overflow-hidden"><div class="react-scroll-to-bottom--css-hrbux-79elbk h-full dark:bg-gray-800"><div class="react-scroll-to-bottom--css-hrbux-1n7m0yu"><div class="flex flex-col items-center text-sm dark:bg-gray-800"><div class="group w-full text-gray-800 dark:text-gray-100 border-b border-black/10 dark:border-gray-900/50 bg-gray-50 dark:bg-[#444654]"><div class="text-base gap-4 md:gap-6 md:max-w-2xl lg:max-w-xl xl:max-w-3xl p-4 md:py-6 flex lg:px-0 m-auto"><div class="relative flex w-[calc(100%-50px)] flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3 lg:w-[calc(100%-115px)]"><div class="flex flex-grow flex-col gap-3"><div class="min-h-[20px] flex flex-col items-start gap-4 whitespace-pre-wrap"><div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light">
<div>Graduation is an important milestone in many people's lives, and it's often celebrated with a party or ceremony. One of the best ways to set the tone for a graduation event is with music, and there are plenty of great songs out there that capture the spirit of this special occasion.</div>
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<div>According to a list compiled by ChatGPT, some of the most popular graduation songs of all time include classics like "We Are the Champions" by Queen and "Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey, as well as more recent hits like "Best Day of My Life" by American Authors and "High Hopes" by Panic! At The Disco.</div>
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<div>Other great graduation songs with inspiring messages include "Forever Young" by Rod Stewart, "Brave" by Sara Bareilles, and "The Climb" by Miley Cyrus. And for those looking for a more nostalgic throwback, there's always "Graduation (Friends Forever)" by Vitamin C, which was a popular choice for high school graduations in the late 1990s and early 2000s.</div>
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<div>No matter what your musical tastes are, there's sure to be a graduation song on this list that will help you celebrate this momentous occasion. So whether you're throwing a graduation party or just looking for some inspiration as you move on to the next chapter of your life, be sure to check out some of these great songs, listed by year:</div>
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<li>"Graduation (Friends Forever)" by Vitamin C (1999)</li>
<li>"Ain't No Mountain High Enough" by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell (1967)</li>
<li>"We Are the Champions" by Queen (1977)</li>
<li>"Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey (1981)</li>
<li>"Forever Young" by Rod Stewart (1988)</li>
<li>"I Will Remember You" by Sarah McLachlan (1995)</li>
<li>"Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)" by Green Day (1997)</li>
<li>"The Climb" by Miley Cyrus (2009)</li>
<li>"My Wish" by Rascal Flatts (2006)</li>
<li>"Hall of Fame" by The Script ft. will.i.am (2012)</li>
<li>"Shining Star" by Earth, Wind & Fire (1975)</li>
<li>"Count on Me" by Bruno Mars (2010)</li>
<li>"High Hopes" by Panic! At The Disco (2018)</li>
<li>"Graduation" by Kanye West ft. Chris Martin (2007)</li>
<li>"Beautiful Day" by U2 (2000)</li>
<li>"Graduation Day" by Chris Isaak (2009)</li>
<li>"Graduation Song (Friends Forever)" by T-Squad (2006)</li>
<li>"Best Day of My Life" by American Authors (2013)</li>
<li>"Graduation Trip" by Blue Scholars (2007)</li>
<li>"Unwritten" by Natasha Bedingfield (2004)</li>
<li>"Graduation" by Benny Blanco and Juice WRLD (2019)</li>
<li>"Congratulations" by Post Malone ft. Quavo (2016)</li>
<li>"The World is Ours" by David Correy (2014)</li>
<li>"My Future" by Billie Eilish (2020</li>
<li>"Good Life" by OneRepublic (2010)</li>
<li>"Champion" by Carrie Underwood ft. Ludacris (2018)</li>
<li>"High School Never Ends" by Bowling for Soup (2006)</li>
<li>"We Made It" by Busta Rhymes ft. Linkin Park (2008)</li>
<li>"We Are Young" by Fun ft. Janelle Monáe (2011)</li>
<li>"I Gotta Feeling" by The Black Eyed Peas (2009)</li>
</ol>DJs AND MCs, LLCtag:djsandmcs.com,2005:Post/71949722023-04-22T00:02:06-07:002023-04-22T00:02:06-07:00The First Hip Hop DJ...Ever<div class="group w-full text-gray-800 dark:text-gray-100 border-b border-black/10 dark:border-gray-900/50 bg-gray-50 dark:bg-[#444654]" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust:auto;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;caret-color:rgb(51, 51, 51);color:rgb(51, 51, 51);font-family:helvetica, arial, sans-serif;font-size:16px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;orphans:auto;text-align:start;text-decoration:none;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:auto;word-spacing:0px;"><div class="text-base gap-4 md:gap-6 md:max-w-2xl lg:max-w-xl xl:max-w-3xl p-4 md:py-6 flex lg:px-0 m-auto"><div class="relative flex w-[calc(100%-50px)] flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3 lg:w-[calc(100%-115px)]">
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<div>Hip-hop music has become one of the most popular and influential musical genres of the past few decades, and it all started with a man named Clive Campbell, better known as Kool Herc. Kool Herc is widely recognized as one of the first turntable disc jockeys, or DJs, and his pioneering work laid the foundation for the hip-hop culture and music that we know today.</div>
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<div>Kool Herc was born in Jamaica and moved to the Bronx, New York City, in the 1960s. He began DJing at local block parties and community events, and quickly developed a reputation for his innovative use of two turntables and a mixer to create a continuous loop of music. He also popularized the technique of "breakbeat" DJing, where he would isolate and repeat the percussion breaks of popular funk and soul songs, providing a rhythmic foundation for MCs to rap over.</div>
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<div>Kool Herc's parties soon became the talk of the town, drawing crowds of thousands of people and launching a new cultural movement that would come to be known as hip-hop. His influence extended beyond his own DJing, as he also provided a platform for up-and-coming MCs to showcase their skills and helped to nurture the early hip-hop scene in the Bronx.</div>
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<div>Kool Herc was known for playing a wide variety of records at his parties, but he had a particular fondness for funk, soul, and R&B records with strong, danceable beats. Some of the tracks he would play at his parties include:</div>
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<li>"Apache" by The Incredible Bongo Band</li>
<li>"Funky Drummer" by James Brown</li>
<li>"The Mexican" by Babe Ruth</li>
<li>"Good Times" by Chic</li>
<li>"Get Up and Dance" by Freedom</li>
<li>"Soul Makossa" by Manu Dibango</li>
<li>"Love Is the Message" by MFSB</li>
<li>"Think (About It)" by Lyn Collins</li>
<li>"Give It Up or Turnit a Loose" by James Brown</li>
<li>"Blow Your Head" by Fred Wesley and The J.B.'s</li>
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<div>Kool Herc's impact on hip-hop music and culture can be seen in the work of the many DJs who were inspired by his innovations. Grandmaster Flash, one of the most influential DJs of all time, is known for his pioneering work with the turntable and mixer, and is credited with developing many of the techniques that are now standard in hip-hop DJing. Afrika Bambaataa, another early hip-hop DJ and key figure in the development of the hip-hop culture, is known for his eclectic DJ sets that drew from a wide range of genres.</div>
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<div>Kool Herc's own younger brother, Cindy Campbell, who DJed under the name "Charlie Chase," was also a prominent hip-hop DJ in his own right, and a member of the Cold Crush Brothers. DJ Hollywood, another early hip-hop DJ, was known for his high-energy party-rocking style, which helped to popularize the use of MCs and rapping in hip-hop music.</div>
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<div>Together, these DJs and others who followed in their footsteps built upon Kool Herc's innovations and helped to shape the sound of hip-hop music and the role of the DJ in the culture. Today, hip-hop music continues to evolve and thrive, and Kool Herc's legacy lives on as one of the key figures who helped to create this vibrant and influential cultural movement.</div>
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</div></div></div><div class="w-full h-32 md:h-48 flex-shrink-0" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust:auto;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;caret-color:rgb(51, 51, 51);color:rgb(51, 51, 51);font-family:helvetica, arial, sans-serif;font-size:16px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;orphans:auto;text-align:start;text-decoration:none;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:auto;word-spacing:0px;"> </div>DJs AND MCs, LLCtag:djsandmcs.com,2005:Post/71784242023-03-25T10:38:44-07:002023-03-25T10:38:44-07:00How To Select the Perfect Wedding Song (Part 2)<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust:auto;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;caret-color:rgb(0, 0, 0);color:rgb(0, 0, 0);font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;orphans:auto;text-align:start;text-decoration:none;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:auto;word-spacing:0px;">Ok...now that you know how to select the perfect wedding day song, here's a list of 30 Top Love Songs to give you some inspiration. We've made sure not to repeat any artists so you have a diverse range of options to choose from!</div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust:auto;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;caret-color:rgb(0, 0, 0);color:rgb(0, 0, 0);font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;orphans:auto;text-align:start;text-decoration:none;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:auto;word-spacing:0px;"> </div><ol>
<li>"I Will Always Love You" by Whitney Houston</li>
<li>"Unchained Melody" by The Righteous Brothers</li>
<li>"Endless Love" by Diana Ross & Lionel Richie</li>
<li>"Always & Forever" by Heatwave</li>
<li>"When a Man Loves a Woman" by Percy Sledge</li>
<li>"Unforgettable" by Nat King Cole</li>
<li>"Can't Help Falling in Love" by Elvis Presley</li>
<li>"At Last" by Etta James</li>
<li>"The Way You Look Tonight" by Frank Sinatra</li>
<li>"You Are the Love of My Life" by Sam Cooke</li>
<li>"When I Fall in Love" by Nat King Cole</li>
<li>"The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" by Roberta Flack</li>
<li>"Something" by The Beatles</li>
<li>"How Deep Is Your Love" by Bee Gees</li>
<li>"So Amazingr" by Luther Vandross</li>
<li>"I Got You Babe" by Sonny & Cher</li>
<li>"Let's Stay Together" by Al Green</li>
<li>"The Power of Love" by Celine Dion</li>
<li>"When You Say Nothing at All" by Alison Krauss</li>
<li>"Have I Told You Lately" by Van Morrison</li>
<li>"You Are So Beautiful" by Joe Cocker</li>
<li>"Thinking Out Loud" by Ed Sheeran</li>
<li>"All of Me" by John Legend</li>
<li>"You Are the Best Thing" by Ray LaMontagne</li>
<li>"Amazed" by Lonestar</li>
<li>"From This Moment On" by Shania Twain</li>
<li>"Better Together" by Jack Johnson</li>
<li>"Truly, Madly, Deeply" by Savage Garden</li>
<li>"Shallow" by Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper</li>
<li>“For The Lover In You” by Shalamar</li>
</ol><div class="group w-full text-gray-800 dark:text-gray-100 border-b border-black/10 dark:border-gray-900/50 bg-gray-50 dark:bg-[#444654]"><div class="text-base gap-4 md:gap-6 md:max-w-2xl lg:max-w-2xl xl:max-w-3xl p-4 md:py-6 flex lg:px-0 m-auto"><div class="relative flex w-[calc(100%-50px)] flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3 lg:w-[calc(100%-115px)]"><div class="flex flex-grow flex-col gap-3"><div class="min-h-[20px] flex flex-col items-start gap-4 whitespace-pre-wrap"><div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light">
<div>We hope this list helps you find the perfect love song for your special moment. If you still can't find a song that's right for you…we're here to help. Feel free to reach out to us for a reception planning consultation and get a quote for all your Wedding Day audio visual needs. Congratulations once again and best wishes on your wedding day!</div>
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</div></div></div></div></div></div>DJs AND MCs, LLCtag:djsandmcs.com,2005:Post/71784212023-03-25T10:11:14-07:002023-03-25T10:14:24-07:00How To Select the Perfect Wedding Song (Part 1)<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust:auto;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;caret-color:rgb(0, 0, 0);color:rgb(0, 0, 0);font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;orphans:auto;text-align:start;text-decoration:none;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:auto;word-spacing:0px;">Your wedding day is one of the most special moments in your life. From the dress, to the venue, to the food, everything needs to be perfect. And what better way to celebrate your love than with the perfect wedding day song? A song that captures the essence of your relationship, that takes you back to the moment you first met, that makes you fall in love with each other all over again. But with so many options out there, how do you select the perfect wedding day song? Here are some tips to help you choose:</div><div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust:auto;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;caret-color:rgb(0, 0, 0);color:rgb(0, 0, 0);font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;orphans:auto;text-align:start;text-decoration:none;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:auto;word-spacing:0px;"> </div><div>Choose a song that has meaning to you Think about your relationship with your partner. What are the special moments you've shared together? Was there a song that you both loved listening to, or a song that reminds you of a particular moment in your relationship? Choosing a song that has meaning to you will make your wedding day even more special.</div><div> </div><div>Think about the tempo and genre While slow love songs are a classic choice for a wedding day song, don't feel limited to this genre. Think about the tempo and genre that best represents your relationship. Whether it's a soulful R&B ballad, a country love song, or a pop hit, choose a song that represents your love story.</div><div> </div><div>Consider the lyrics The lyrics of a song can be just as important as the melody. Choose a song that has lyrics that reflect your feelings for each other. Whether it's a song about the journey to finding love, a song that celebrates the joy of being in love, or a song that promises a lifetime of love, choose a song that speaks to your heart.</div><div> </div><div>Practice dancing to the song Once you've selected your wedding day song, practice dancing to it. This will help you feel more comfortable and confident on your wedding day. You don't need to be a professional dancer, just have fun and enjoy the moment with your partner. </div><div> </div><div>In our next segment, we'll list some of the Top Romantic Love Songs for your First Dance!</div><div> </div>DJs AND MCs, LLCtag:djsandmcs.com,2005:Post/71711392023-03-14T07:49:03-07:002023-03-14T08:02:11-07:00St. Patrick's Day<div class="default-style" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust:auto;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;color:rgb(51, 51, 51);font-family:helvetica, arial, sans-serif;font-size:12pt;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;orphans:auto;text-align:start;text-decoration:none;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:auto;word-spacing:0px;"><div class="flex-1 overflow-hidden"><div class="react-scroll-to-bottom--css-ubjci-79elbk h-full dark:bg-gray-800"><div class="react-scroll-to-bottom--css-ubjci-1n7m0yu"><div class="flex flex-col items-center text-sm dark:bg-gray-800">
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<div>St. Patrick's Day is a cultural and religious holiday that is celebrated annually on March 17th. The holiday honors Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, who is credited with spreading Christianity in Ireland during the 5th century.</div>
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<div>The exact origins of St. Patrick's Day are unclear, but it is believed to have started as a religious feast day in the early 17th century. The day became an official public holiday in Ireland in 1903, and it has since become a global celebration of Irish culture and heritage.</div>
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<div>St. Patrick's Day is associated with the color green, shamrocks, and Irish folklore. One of the most well-known legends associated with St. Patrick is the story of how he drove the snakes out of Ireland. It is also traditional to wear green on St. Patrick's Day, and many people celebrate with parades, traditional music and dance, and feasting.</div>
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<div>Today, St. Patrick's Day is celebrated in many countries around the world, particularly in the United States, Canada, and Australia, where there are large Irish populations. It has become a day to celebrate Irish culture and heritage, as well as a day to celebrate the arrival of spring.</div>
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<div class="min-h-[20px] flex flex-col items-start gap-4 whitespace-pre-wrap">Here's a list of 25 favorite Irish songs that you can play on St. Patricks day:</div>
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<p>1."Danny Boy" - This classic ballad is often associated with Irish heritage and is a popular choice for St. Patrick's Day celebrations.</p>
<div>2. "The Wild Rover" - This upbeat traditional Irish song is often played in pubs and is great for sing-alongs.</div>
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<div>3. "Whiskey in the Jar" - This traditional Irish folk song tells the story of a highwayman who is betrayed by his lover and is often performed by Irish bands.</div>
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<div>4. "Galway Girl" - This modern Irish folk song by Steve Earle is a favorite for dancing.</div>
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<div>5. "Molly Malone" - This traditional Irish song tells the story of a fishmonger and is often performed by Irish bands.</div>
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<div>6. "Black Velvet Band" - This traditional Irish song tells the story of a man who is falsely accused of stealing and is often played in pubs.</div>
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<div>7. "Rocky Road to Dublin" - This fast-paced traditional Irish song tells the story of a man who travels to Dublin and is often played by Irish bands.</div>
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<div>8. "Fields of Athenry" - This modern Irish folk ballad tells the story of a man who is sent to prison for stealing food during the Irish Potato Famine and is often played at St. Patrick's Day events.</div>
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<div>9. "Dirty Old Town" - This modern Irish folk song by Ewan MacColl tells the story of a man who longs to escape his industrial hometown and is often played in pubs.</div>
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<div>10. "I'm Shipping Up to Boston" by Dropkick Murphys - This high-energy Celtic punk song has become a staple of St. Patrick's Day celebrations in the United States.</div>
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<div>10. "The Boys Are Back in Town" by Thin Lizzy - This classic rock anthem, with Irish roots, is a favorite among St. Patrick's Day revelers.</div>
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<div>11. "Zombie" by The Cranberries - This haunting rock song was written by Irish band The Cranberries as a response to the 1993 IRA bombing in Warrington, England.</div>
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<div>12. "Foggy Dew" by Sinead O'Connor and The Chieftains - This traditional Irish ballad was reimagined by Sinead O'Connor and The Chieftains in the 1990s and has since become a St. Patrick's Day favorite.</div>
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<div>13. "The Irish Rover" - This traditional Irish song tells the story of a ship that sinks in a storm and is often played in pubs.</div>
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<div>14. "The Rocky Road to Dublin" by The Dubliners - This traditional Irish song was reimagined by Irish folk band The Dubliners and has since become a favorite among Irish Americans.</div>
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<div>15. "Seven Drunken Nights" by The Dubliners - This raucous song tells the story of a man who suspects his wife of infidelity and is a popular St. Patrick's Day drinking song.</div>
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<div>16. "Dirty Water" by The Standells - This garage rock classic was written by a Boston band, The Standells, and has become a staple of St. Patrick's Day celebrations in Boston.</div>
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<div>17. "If I Ever Leave This World Alive" by Flogging Molly - This upbeat Celtic punk song by Irish-American band Flogging Molly is often played at St. Patrick's Day celebrations.</div>
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<div>18. "The Rising of the Moon" by The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem - This traditional Irish song has been covered by many artists but is perhaps best known in the United States for the version recorded by The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem in the 1960s.</div>
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<div>19. "Irish Celebration" by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis - This rap song by American duo Macklemore and Ryan Lewis celebrates Irish heritage and is often played at St. Patrick's Day events.</div>
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<div>20. "Green and Red of Mayo" by The Saw Doctors - This upbeat rock song by Irish band The Saw Doctors pays tribute to the Irish county of Mayo and is often played at St. Patrick's Day events.</div>
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<div>21. "The Rocky Road to Poland" by Seamus Kennedy - This humorous song by Irish-American musician Seamus Kennedy tells the story of a group of Irish fans traveling to the Euro 2012 soccer tournament in Poland.</div>
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<div>22. "Ordinary Day" by Great Big Sea - This upbeat folk-pop song by Canadian band Great Big Sea, with Irish roots, has become a favorite among Irish Americans.</div>
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<div>23. "The Parting Glass" by Ed Sheeran - This acoustic ballad by English musician Ed Sheeran is a cover of a traditional Irish song and is often played at St. Patrick's Day events.</div>
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<div>24. "If You're Irish Come into the Parlour" by Ruby Murray - This upbeat song by Northern Irish singer Ruby Murray celebrates Irish heritage and is often played at St. Patrick's Day events.</div>
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<div>25. "The Streets of New York" by The Wolfe Tones - This contemporary take on a traditional Irish folk song by Irish band The Wolfe Tones tells the story of Irish immigrants in New York City and has become a favorite among Irish American</div>
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</div></div></div></div></div><div class="io-ox-signature" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust:auto;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;caret-color:rgb(0, 0, 0);color:rgb(0, 0, 0);font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;orphans:auto;text-align:start;text-decoration:none;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:auto;word-spacing:0px;"><p> </p></div>DJs AND MCs, LLCtag:djsandmcs.com,2005:Post/71667592023-03-07T08:55:59-08:002023-03-10T16:03:17-08:00How to Prepare for the Prom: Tips and Advice<div class="gmail-w-full gmail-border-b gmail-border-black/10 gmail-dark:border-gray-900/50 gmail-text-gray-800 gmail-dark:text-gray-100 gmail-group gmail-bg-gray-50 gmail-dark:bg-[#444654]" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust:auto;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;border-bottom-width:1px;border-color:rgba(32, 33, 35, 0.5);border-left-width:0px;border-right-width:0px;border-style:solid;border-top-width:0px;box-sizing:border-box;caret-color:rgb(0, 0, 0);color:rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:14px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;orphans:auto;text-align:start;text-decoration:none;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:auto;width:1172px;word-spacing:0px;"><div class="gmail-text-base gmail-gap-4 gmail-md:gap-6 gmail-m-auto gmail-md:max-w-2xl gmail-lg:max-w-2xl gmail-xl:max-w-3xl gmail-p-4 gmail-md:py-6 gmail-flex gmail-lg:px-0" style="border:0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227);box-sizing:border-box;column-gap:1.5rem;display:flex;font-size:1rem;line-height:1.5rem;margin:auto;max-width:48rem;padding:1.5rem 0px;row-gap:1.5rem;"><div class="gmail-relative gmail-flex gmail-w-[calc(100%-50px)] gmail-flex-col gmail-gap-1 gmail-md:gap-3 gmail-lg:w-[calc(100%-115px)]" style="border:0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227);box-sizing:border-box;column-gap:0.75rem;display:flex;flex-direction:column;row-gap:0.75rem;">
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<p>Prom is a special event that many high school students look forward to, but it can also be a source of stress and anxiety. From finding the perfect dress or suit to planning transportation and coordinating with friends, there are many things to consider when preparing for prom. In this article, we will provide some tips and advice on how to prepare for the prom and make sure that you have a fun and memorable experience.</p>
<ol><li>Start planning early</li></ol>
<p>One of the most important things you can do when preparing for prom is to start planning early. This means that you should start looking for a dress or suit, arranging transportation, and coordinating with friends at least a few weeks or months in advance. By starting early, you will have more time to find the perfect outfit, make reservations, and avoid last-minute stress.</p>
<ol><li start="2">Set a budget</li></ol>
<p>Prom can be an expensive event, so it's important to set a budget and stick to it. Consider all of the costs associated with prom, including the cost of the dress or suit, shoes, accessories, hair and makeup, transportation, tickets, and any other expenses you might incur. Once you have a budget in mind, you can start making decisions about what you can afford and where you might need to cut back.</p>
<ol><li start="3">Find the perfect outfit</li></ol>
<p>Finding the perfect outfit is one of the most important aspects of preparing for prom. Whether you're looking for a dress or a suit, there are many factors to consider, including your personal style, your budget, and the dress code. When choosing an outfit, be sure to try on different styles and colors to find the one that makes you feel confident and comfortable.</p>
<ol><li start="4">Coordinate with friends</li></ol>
<p>Prom is a social event, so it's important to coordinate with your friends to make sure that everyone is on the same page. This includes deciding on transportation, coordinating outfits, and making plans for before and after the dance. By working together, you can ensure that everyone has a fun and memorable prom experience.</p>
<ol><li start="5">Plan transportation</li></ol>
<p>Transportation is another important aspect of preparing for prom. Whether you're renting a limousine or arranging a carpool with friends, it's important to plan ahead and make reservations early. Be sure to consider factors like the cost, the number of people in your group, and the distance to the prom venue.</p>
<ol><li start="6">Take care of yourself</li></ol>
<p>Preparing for prom can be stressful, but it's important to take care of yourself in the process. This means getting enough sleep, eating well, and staying hydrated. It also means taking care of your mental health by managing stress, practicing self-care, and seeking support if you need it.</p>
<p>In conclusion, preparing for prom can be a fun and exciting experience, but it can also be stressful and overwhelming. By starting early, setting a budget, finding the perfect outfit, coordinating with friends, planning transportation, and taking care of yourself, you can ensure that you have a fun and memorable prom experience.</p>
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</div></div></div><p><br><br> </p>DJs AND MCs, LLCtag:djsandmcs.com,2005:Post/71667522023-03-07T08:44:51-08:002023-03-07T08:44:51-08:00Why Hiring a Professional DJ Is Key to the Success of Your Event<p>When it comes to planning an event, the music can often make or break the atmosphere. While it may be tempting to simply put together a pre-recorded playlist of songs, hiring a professional DJ can take your event to the next level. Here are just a few of the benefits of hiring a professional DJ for your next event.</p><ol><li>Experience and Expertise</li></ol><p>Professional DJs have years of experience in selecting and mixing music to create the perfect vibe for any event. They know how to read a crowd and choose the right songs to keep people dancing and having a good time. They also have expertise in technical aspects of music like mixing and sound engineering, which ensures that the music sounds great throughout the event.</p><ol><li start="2">Equipment and Setup</li></ol><p>A professional DJ will have all the necessary equipment to ensure that the music sounds great and that there are no technical issues. This includes high-quality speakers, mixers, and microphones. They will also handle the setup and teardown of the equipment, saving you time and hassle.</p><ol><li start="3">Personalization and Flexibility</li></ol><p>One of the biggest advantages of hiring a professional DJ is the ability to personalize the music to fit your event. They can work with you to create a customized playlist that reflects the theme and mood of your event. They can also take requests from guests and adapt to changes in the atmosphere to keep the party going.</p><ol><li start="4">Entertainment Value</li></ol><p>A professional DJ can add entertainment value to your event beyond just playing music. They can engage with the audience, make announcements, and even provide lighting effects to create an immersive experience. This can create a memorable event that guests will talk about for years to come.</p><ol><li start="5">Peace of Mind</li></ol><p>By hiring a professional DJ, you can relax and enjoy your event without worrying about the music. They will handle everything from start to finish, ensuring that the music is perfect and that the party never stops. This allows you to focus on other aspects of the event and enjoy the festivities.</p><p>In conclusion, hiring a professional DJ for your event is a worthwhile investment that can greatly enhance the atmosphere and entertainment value of your event. With their experience, expertise, and flexibility, a professional DJ can create a customized and memorable experience that your guests will never forget. Don't settle for a pre-recorded playlist when you can have a professional DJ take your event to the next level!</p>DJs AND MCs, LLCtag:djsandmcs.com,2005:Post/71620052023-02-27T21:30:18-08:002023-02-27T21:30:18-08:00How To Select A Wedding DJ<p>Congratulations on your upcoming wedding! Music is a vital part of any wedding reception and hiring a professional wedding disc jockey is an excellent way to ensure that your guests have a great time on the dance floor. But how do you select the right DJ for your wedding? Here are some essential tips to help you make the right decision.</p><p>Experience: One of the essential things to look for when selecting a wedding DJ is experience. A professional DJ with several years of experience in wedding events can provide you with valuable advice on the best playlist, songs to avoid, and how to keep your guests engaged. An experienced wedding DJ also knows how to handle any unexpected situation and keep the party going.</p><p>Music Library: The DJ's music library is another critical factor to consider when selecting a wedding DJ. You'll want to hire a DJ that has a diverse range of music genres that will cater to all age groups and tastes. A professional DJ should be able to accommodate any music request, including special songs that you and your spouse-to-be have chosen for your first dance or any other special moments.</p><p>Equipment: A professional DJ should utilize modern and well-maintained equipment. Make sure that the DJ you're considering has the appropriate audio equipment, including high-quality speakers, lighting, and wireless microphones. The DJ should also have backup equipment in case of any malfunction or technical issues during the reception.</p><p>Personality: The personality of the DJ can have a significant impact on your wedding reception. Look for a DJ with a friendly and outgoing personality that will make your guests feel comfortable and entertained. A good DJ should also be able to read the crowd and adjust the music selection to keep everyone on the dance floor.</p><p>Reviews and References: Finally, don't forget to read reviews and ask for references from past clients. A reputable wedding DJ should have positive Google reviews from satisfied clients. You can also ask the DJ for references, which will provide you with a more in-depth insight into the DJ's services and professionalism.</p><p>In conclusion, selecting the right wedding DJ can make or break your reception. Take your time and do your research before making a decision. By considering experience, music library, equipment, personality, and reviews, you'll be able to find a professional wedding DJ that will make your big day unforgettable!</p>DJs AND MCs, LLCtag:djsandmcs.com,2005:Post/56936692019-03-25T17:49:58-07:002023-06-01T15:08:59-07:00"Do You Take Requests?" By Jason Aquino<p>The most frequently asked question that DJs hear is..."Do you take requests?" In general...the typical answer that everyone normally receives is..."Yes!" Most DJs are usually open to suggestions from their audience, because ultimately they want the majority of the people in attendance to enjoy themselves and remember their names. Obviously, the more popular a DJ becomes...the more successful they will be in their career as an entertainer.</p>
<p>Ironically, the number one complaint that most people have about DJs is that..."They didn't play my requests!" This is the eternal conundrum that DJs and their audiences are confronted with. How could this be? If the DJ's goal is for everyone to dance and have a good time, why would they not consider playing someone's request? The answer to this baffling question will soon be revealed, but first...let's explore the definition of a "request".</p>
<p><strong>re-quest</strong> (<em>noun</em>) 1. An act of asking politely or formally for something.</p>
<p>There are many factors that determine whether or not a DJ will play a song, but treating the DJ rudely is guaranteed to get you dismissed for the rest of the evening. This is the Golden Rule...treat other people the way you would like to be treated...with respect. Unfortunately, in this day and age of technology, immediate gratification is often expected and people confuse the word <strong><em>request</em> </strong>with the word <strong><em>demand</em></strong>. </p>
<p><strong>de-mand </strong><em>(noun</em>) 1. An insistent and peremptory request, made as if by right. (<em>verb</em>) 1. To ask authoritatively or brusquely.</p>
<p>If you take a moment to compare the two definitions, you can see, there's a difference. Fielding requests is definitely part of the DJ's job description, but when a person becomes rude, condescending, or even threatening when making a <strong><em>request</em></strong>, they've crossed the line of what's socially acceptable. If you've been invited to attend a party, paid a cover charge to enter a nightclub, or bought a drink at a bar...that does not give you the right to be verbally abusive towards the DJ. The negative effects of alcohol probably have a lot to do with this type of behavior, but that's really not an excuse. The best way to approach a DJ with a request is to simply be nice. It really doesn't hurt to smile and say "please" or "thank you". An even better solution would be to write the song(s) down and leave it at the DJ booth for review. Most likely the DJ is "working" and trying to transition into the next song (which actually might be someone else's request). A prolonged discussion will become a distraction and there may be other requests that were submitted before you. Writing the request down will ensure the DJ will not forget about your song. If you're in a bar or nightclub environment and really want to hear a song right away...consider giving the DJ a gratuity. Most people won't think twice about tipping the bartender for popping a bottle cap or mixing a drink or even the person in the coat check for hanging up their jacket. DJs perform the same type of customer service and are often overlooked by the customers...even when complying with their non-stop requests throughout the night.</p>
<p>Ok, now that we've identified the primary reason why DJs won't play a song request, let's explore some other variables that may affect the DJ's decision to bypass a music suggestion from someone who is always super polite and tips well...</p>
<p>1. <strong>The DJ is Following Orders</strong></p>
<p>Contrary to popular belief, the DJ is actually doing their job and working when they're at an event. Somebody hired the DJ to play music at this particular venue or event for the night and that person is the boss. The DJ may have very specific orders to "play" or "not play" a specific genre or certain artists by the person hiring them for that evening. Explaining this to someone who wants to hear something that's not on the playlist is a very difficult situation to be in. In general, most people don't question their boss about how they want a particular job done...even if they don't always agree. The DJ accepted the gig with this understanding and really doesn't want to debate with anyone on why a particular song should be played. The person being turned down obviously wants an explanation, but the DJ is trying to do his job and now this person is becoming a distraction. This is usually the point where the conversation takes a turn for the worse. If the initial explanation is not satisfactory to the person making the request, the DJ will undoubtedly be criticized. Bottom Line: Don't take it personal if a DJ tells you they can't play a particular song...they're only doing their job.</p>
<p>2. <strong>The DJ Doesn't Have the Song</strong></p>
<p>Back in the day this was more of an issue, because DJs had to purchase and bring their music collection to every event. If a particular DJ is working with only vinyl records or CDs, this will definitely be an issue. Today, with the internet, people are used to being able to stream any song they want. Almost all of today's DJs have the ability to stream music, but there's always that possibility of WiFi not being available at a remote location. A more plausible explanation for not having a song in today's world is not having the necessary connections to playback the streaming music on the available sound system. In any event, this will not be viewed as an acceptable explanation, because a professional DJ is expected to be prepared for any such contingencies.</p>
<p>3. <strong>The Song is Inappropriate</strong></p>
<p>This really shouldn't require an explanation, but sometimes a a particular song is just inappropriate because of the lyrical content and the audience that it's being requested for. High School and Middle School students are the worst at understanding this concept. It has become normal for kids to listen to explicit lyrics, because everyone can buy and listen to any type of music on the internet. A lot of DJs like to listen to these types of songs too, but playing a song like this at a school dance doesn't usually go over very well with the faculty. If the most popular song doesn't have a radio playable version available, the DJ again has a difficult choice: endure the complaints and insults of the kids... or making the the teachers, parents, and chaperones really, really mad and never being able to DJ again at that particular school. </p>
<p>Another example of this would be playing songs about relationship break ups at wedding reception or an engagement party. It's just not appropriate.</p>
<p>4. <strong>It's The Wrong Time To Play the Song</strong></p>
<p>Every song has a tempo or BPM (beats per minute). If the dance floor is packed with people dancing, the DJ will be reluctant to abruptly change the tempo. You don't really want to jump from a 96 BPM to a 130 BPM, but people make requests like this all the time. The DJ may really want to play the song that's being asked for, but it's simply not the right time. Perhaps the song is really popular and the DJ is waiting for more people to arrive...perhaps the DJ is planning to play the song at the end of the evening for the maximum effect...or perhaps it just wouldn't sound right to mix "Shook You All Night Long" by AC DC with "In My Feelings" by Drake. You think? Whatever the reasons... the DJ is responsible for building the energy of the party and abrupt tempo changes usually don't help accomplish that. Professional DJs will group their music sets together by genre and tempo. If those two things are conflicted...the DJ isn't going to play a request and ruin the chemistry or vibe of the party at that particular time. This doesn't mean, however, that the DJ won't play the song later, when it may flow more with what's going on. The inherent problem with most requests are that a lot of people are impatient and have a sense of entitlement (<strong>see the definition of</strong> <strong>demand</strong>). It's really hard for some people to realize they aren't the only person at the party. They're very quick to criticize the DJ for playing a particular genre because "It Sucks..." without realizing that perhaps somebody else in the room actually requested that song and really likes that type of music. If the DJ doesn't immediately play your song and says they'll get to it...be patient. Otherwise, if you absolutely must hear your requested song next...strongly consider tipping the DJ. Don't hover around the DJ booth and become a pest, this will become annoying and may result in further delays. Remember: There's other people in attendance and there may be several requests that have already been made ahead of you. The DJ will play your song when the time is right!</p>
<p>5. <strong>The Song Doesn't Mesh With the Theme</strong></p>
<p>This is eerily similar to numbers 1 and 4, but if you go to an EDM club, don't expect to hear Hip Hop. If it's a Throwback 70's Disco Party and everyone is in costume...don't ask for Rock & Roll. If there's a dance instructor giving Salsa lessons...don't ask for Country Music. Although this is painfully obvious, you would be surprised by how often this happens. Too often people confuse the DJ with being a jukebox that operates for free. Perhaps one day technology will ultimately replace the DJ, but until then...the only people who have the right to ask for whatever they want....whenever they want...is the person paying the check. </p>
<p>The DJ really wants to make everyone happy, but sometimes that's a difficult task. The very best DJs have an understanding and an appreciation for all types of music and are able to connect with their audience. Members of the audience, however, don't always see things from the DJ's perspective...which is focussing on the overall success of the party. Music requests are always taken into consideration, but the easiest way to get your song played by the DJ is just treat them like anyone else and be polite. </p>
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<p> </p>DJs AND MCs, LLCtag:djsandmcs.com,2005:Post/56549692019-02-22T12:59:48-08:002023-11-21T01:29:21-08:00"How To Maximize Your Reception Time And Reduce Stress At Your Wedding"...Part IV The Party! By Jason Aquino<p>This is the moment everyone has been been waiting for..."The Party" is the big pay off for all the research, planning, and hard work and it's time to have fun! As the meal comes to an end, the guests are beginning to anticipate the dancing... but nothing is really going to happen until the Bride & Groom are ready to make it happen.</p><p>Once the Bride & Groom have completed eating and toasting and visiting with the guests... it's up to them to tell the DJ, photographer, & videographer that they're ready to start. If there's a designated wedding coordinator, they can do this for them, but ultimately... the Bride & Groom have to stop whatever they're doing and come out to the dance floor. Sometimes the wedding coordinator (or the other vendors) don't want to seem pushy and time drags on and on while everyone waits for the signal to begin. Sometimes the Bride & Groom never signal anyone to begin, because they're just hanging out waiting for someone to tell them what to do next. This inertia can potentially can waste a lot of the party time, but it all really depends on what's most important to the couple. If they're visiting with out of town guests they haven't seen in years and everyone has to wait 15 minutes for that conversation to end...then that's what's going to happen.</p><p>Once the signal is given, the DJ will make the announcement and commence with the first dance, traditionally reserved for the Bride & Groom. Depending on the status of the parents...the Father-Daughter Dance and Mother-Son Dance usually follow. If anyone feels uncomfortable with the spotlight of attention...it's a simple matter for the DJ to fade out of any of these planned songs early...after the photographers have taken all their shots. If there's a large Bridal Party, sometimes it's nice to invite them to join the parents and Bride & Groom on the floor to kick things off. If the members of the Bridal Party are in attendance with other "significant others"...sometimes it's just best to invite everyone to come out on the dance floor. What works best for either scenario is to have the Bride & Groom stay on the dance floor and then have the DJ play a "slow love song". This is guaranteed to work, because almost everyone in attendance will most likely be there as a couple. Everyone has also just finished a great meal...so maybe they're not really be ready go "all out" with their latest dance moves. You want to lure everyone out with a slow song, in order to create a large dance floor...and then hit them with the party starter song! This proven strategy will only be effective, however, if the Bride & Groom stay on the dance floor. This is not the time to go and get a drink, or have a smoke, or run to the bathroom...wait until everyone is up dancing...in order to get things going.</p><p>The party is now underway! Everyone is having a great time and there's an incredible sense of relief. The dance floor is packed and every song that's played creates more and more energy...and then...about 15-20 minutes into the party...the caterer tells the DJ to stop the music, because it's time to cut the cake. If the cake was cut earlier before the dancing started (see Part III The Meal) there's no need to stop music. It's ok, however, if you do need to stop. Perhaps everyone needs a break anyway and a pro DJ should be able to get everyone back on the dance floor. If you do stop, this is usually a good time to take care of any planned (or unplanned) speeches or toasts that didn't happen earlier. At the conclusion of the ceremonial Cake Cutting, the only other traditional formality left is the "Bouquet and Garter Toss". If the photographer is almost done for the day...they probably will want to do this immediately after the Cake Cutting. The "Bouquet & Garter Toss" is reserved for all the single people in attendance, so this can definitely be delayed until later. There's really no harm, however, in getting it over with so the music can come back on and people can resume the dancing. This really depends on how long your photographer has committed to staying. If they started their shift at 8am during hair and make-up styling...they're probably ready to wrap it up. </p><p>Finally, at the conclusion of the evening, have the DJ announce the final song with about 30 minutes to go in the party. They can invite all the remaining guests to participate in a "Farewell Dance" dedicated to the Bride & Groom...and still have about 20 minutes left to end everything on a high note with one last set of popular dance songs. Everyone always want to hear "one more song..." and now the DJ can play several more songs and still end the event on time as planned.</p><p>Essentially, every wedding couple is unique and nothing is set in stone regarding how the wedding reception should be planned. All of the ideas presented in this series were suggestions, to help give you an idea of how the day could potentially unfold. Incorporate the things that you think will work best for the people who will actually be in attendance. The most important thing to remember is to have a general outline of the reception schedule and convey what you would like to have happen to your vendors and your Bridal Party. Selecting professional experienced vendors will alleviate a lot of your stress and allow you to enjoy the happiest moments of a lifetime! </p><p> </p><p> </p>DJs AND MCs, LLCtag:djsandmcs.com,2005:Post/56414042019-02-13T12:35:26-08:002019-02-13T12:42:25-08:00"How To Maximize Your Reception Time And Reduce Stress At Your Wedding"...Part III The Meal by Jason Aquino<p>The Bride and Groom have just made their Grand Entrance into the dining area...and the applause begins to fade...what happens now? Obviously, everyone is ready to eat, but with a little advance planning, there are a few formalities that can be addressed at this time. A good segue is to have the DJ invite everyone to be seated and then introduce the Father of the Bride (or parents) to give a brief welcome toast. After the opening remarks, any blessings (if scheduled) should occur immediately thereafter, and then the food service can begin. Talk to your caterer and get their thoughts about doing the Best Man and Maid/Matron of Honor toasts after the parents do their welcoming remarks. If the speakers from your bridal party are prepared... and the planned remarks are brief...the time before the food service begins can potentially be a good slot to do all the toasts at once. What's ideal is that this will probably be the only time during the entire evening when everyone in attendance is seated in the same place and attentive. However, if you know that the the Maid of Honor has a story that's probably going to go on for awhile...and there's a good possibility that she may break down and cry tears of happiness...do the additional toasts at a later time.</p>
<p>In general, most caterers do not want to all the toasts at once at the beginning of the meal, because they are preoccupied with serving the food while it's still hot. If the meal is a full service sit down affair, most likely the salads were already on the tables when the guests were first invited to take their seats. If you're having a buffet, the Bride and Groom, Parents, and Bridal Party are usually served by the staff or invited to go through the line first and then they are followed by the remaining guests. In order to prevent a free-for-all at the buffet line, it's usually best to invite only 1 or 2 tables to go through the line at a time. One way to have an orderly procession through the buffet is to have the DJ make the announcements and call the tables one by one. The DJ is happy to do this, because it's part of their job description to make announcements. What's a lot more classy and seems to work better, however, is when a member of the banquet staff approaches the tables individually and invites them personally to enjoy the buffet. I'm not sure exactly what the thought process is... but most people seem to become very upset when hanging on the the edge of their seat, waiting for some DJ to call their table. A few select people may even feel that this process doesn't apply to them and they'll proceed to get in line anyway...effectively creating the very log jam everyone was hoping to avoid. Perhaps it's a survival instinct, but I've seen it happen on more than a few occasions when people are hungry. In general...if the DJ is playing nice background music and not making announcements...and a banquet staff member is walking the room to invite the guests to dinner...people will normally chill out, have a drink, and engage in table conversation. It's been said that, "music calms the savage beast" and in this situation, more often than not it's true.</p>
<p>Whether you decide on a buffet or a sit-down affair...at some point the vendors will need to take a break and the meal is the perfect time to do that. There's a good chance the photographers have been on their feet following you around the entire day. If the ceremony occurred at the same venue where you're having the reception, most likely the videographer and the DJ have been onsite for the past 4 hours as well. Setting aside 20 minutes of downtime for your vendors to eat is a good way to recharge everyone's batteries and keep morale up. If you've arranged for the caterers to take care of the other vendors...make sure they know when everyone is going on break. The expectations are that the break will be brief... and that the caterer will serve them when it occurs.</p>
<p>Once the Bride & Groom have finished eating it's back to work for all the wedding professionals at the event. If the toasts haven't happened yet or you'd like to visit each table for pictures with guests... this is the time to do it. After the toasts and pictures are finished the meal begins to come to a close...people will begin to anticipate the dancing. If you're envisioning a non-stop club atmosphere after dinner, you may want to consider cutting the wedding cake before the first dance. The advantage to doing this is you don't have to kick everyone off a packed dance floor once the party starts. Other benefits are the cake can now be served with coffee as dessert...and any toasts that haven't been made yet will still command most of the guest's attention. Overall, there's a lot going on during the "dinner hour". Depending on your head count and certain logistics...it may actually take longer than an hour to complete the aforementioned events. The caterer will naturally assume the lead during this time. Talk with them beforehand about their plans for the meal and convey that to the other vendors so everyone will be working in unison on the day of the event!</p>
<p>Next...Part IV...The Party!</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>DJs AND MCs, LLCtag:djsandmcs.com,2005:Post/56292712019-02-05T17:11:34-08:002019-02-11T01:13:14-08:00"How To Maximize Your Reception Time And Reduce Stress At Your Wedding" Part II - The Cocktail Reception by Jason Aquino<p>A long last...the Part II installment of "How To Maximize Your Reception Time & Reduce Stress At Your Wedding"! I know...it's been 6 years since I wrote Part I...but I've been busy doing DJ stuff. Most people should be able to relate to this. Whenever you have a multitude projects or tasks associated with your job, sometimes you need to prioritize and things that don't seem important get put on the back burner. I didn't understand back then that blogging would allow me to give other people a unique perspective about what DJs do, that often goes unnoticed. This year I'm definitely making the blog a priority and I'm starting over fresh with this first installment for 2019. If you've been waiting for me to come back...thank you for your patience! Here we go...</p>
<p>The Cocktail Reception immediately follows the Wedding Ceremony, but a few things have changed over the years with the advent of multi-purpose wedding venues. A lot of people now opt out of having their ceremony and reception at separate locations. I understand this completely. There's no need for additional travel for you and your guests, there's less chance of somebody being late, there's no invasive religious screening process to undergo, and the cocktail party can start immediately! All of these things will definitely maximize your time and reduce your stress the day of the wedding. The result of this trend, however, has been the elimination of the <strong>Traditional Receiving Line</strong>. </p>
<p>The <strong>Receiving Line</strong> used to be the perfect opportunity for friends and family members to be introduced to each other. It was classy, it was cool, and it forced everyone to say hello to each other upon arrival to the reception. The Bride & Groom, the parents, and the Maid/Matron of Honor and Best Man would all line up, side by side and greet everyone as they arrived to the party. After passing through the <strong>Receiving Line</strong>, members of the wait staff would be standing by to offer pre-poured wine or champagne to all the guests. If you have 200 guests at your reception, chances are you won't know everybody there. This is a nice way to get the awkward introductions over quickly, because the next person in line is right behind whoever you're welcoming to the party. If everyone that comes to the reception is already at the venue, organizing the <strong>Receiving Line</strong> is a simple task. At the conclusion of the ceremony,...have everyone line up near the entrance to the bar area and keep it moving! </p>
<p>One important thing to consider before incorporating a <strong>Receiving Line</strong> is the time required by the photographer, to take any <strong>post-ceremony</strong> <strong>pictures</strong>. Discuss the number of pictures and the types of shots the photographer is planning to take <strong>AFTER</strong> the ceremony. This will give you a pretty good idea of how much time you'll actually have to enjoy the cocktail reception. You may discover during the consultation, that some of the photographer's plans for the pictures are just really "cheesy" or time consuming. Make photo decisions in advance so you can come up with a good working game plan together, and omit any shots you don't want to do. Whatever game plan you decide upon ...it is essential that you <strong>brief the bridal party</strong> <strong>beforehand on the importance being cooperative. </strong>Make sure<strong> </strong>everyone understands what your expectations are for completing the photoshoot. Coordinating a group of people in "party mode" to take pictures quickly and efficiently is a unique photographer skill unto itself. If the bridal party is all over the place...it will be difficult for the photographer to do their job and it will result in a substantial waste of time at your party. A seasoned professional photographer will know how to interact with everyone and be able to capture a lot of good photos in the time allotted to them. Be deliberate in the selection of your photographer, they will be instrumental in how everything flows the day of your wedding.</p>
<p>As the cocktail "hour" comes to an end, people are feeling good. They're having fun, but it's time to transition to the meal and the formal introductions. What is the best way to accomplish this quickly and efficiently? Have the bartenders <strong>stop all bar service </strong>and have the DJ <strong>make an announcement</strong>, inviting everyone to begin seating for the meal. This needs to be a coordinated effort on the part of the bartenders, the DJ, and the designated wedding coordinator. One action without the other will result in delays. The Bridal Party Introduction cannot happen until everyone is seated in the dining area. Stragglers hanging out at the bar trying to get one last drink will delay everything... including the timing of the food service. Nobody likes to eat cold, dried out chicken...shut the bar down when it's time to do it.</p>
<p>As guests begin to file into the dining area, the DJ will begin lining up the parents, bridal party, and the Bride and Groom for the Grand Entrance. This is another potential delay that can be avoided with a little advance planning. Again...<strong>the parents and bridal party should be briefed beforehand</strong>, <strong>to meet the DJ</strong> (outside the main entrance)...when it's time for the formal introductions. A good time to review this with everyone is the night of the rehearsal dinner. Lining up the bridal party and parents can be challenging for a number of reasons: Someone might be involved in a conversation...someone is in the restroom...someone had to go their car...someone has to change the baby...someone has to smoke a cigarette... or maybe, someone is just really, really drunk already. Get the picture? This part of the reception can be like organizing cats. The parents and bridal party need to be made aware of their responsibilities in advance and report to a designated area at the same time (when the bar closes and the DJ invites everyone to be seated). Once everyone is lined up in the correct order, the introductions will happen fairly quickly, but If you know your group might take awhile getting organized, there's another option to avoid delays. Simply <strong>have everyone be seated at once, including the parents and the bridal party.</strong> This is also a good option if anyone in the group is physically challenged, injured, or just doesn't really have a lot of stamina. The DJ can just introduce the parents and bridal party while they're sitting at their seats. When they hear their names announced, they can stand up and acknowledge the crowd by waving to the guests. Once all the important people in attendance have been acknowledged...the Bride & Groom can make a Grand Entrance with the DJ introducing them to a standing ovation!</p>
<p>Check out the next installment of "How To Maximize Your Reception Time And Reduce Stress At Your Wedding" Part III - The Meal</p>
<p> </p>DJs AND MCs, LLCtag:djsandmcs.com,2005:Post/56288182019-02-05T12:29:09-08:002023-11-21T01:29:59-08:00"How To Maximize You're Reception Time & Reduce Stress" by Jason Aquino (aka DJ Authority)<p>I wrote this article under the alias "DJ Authority" quite some time ago. Unfortunately, I wasn't very consistent with my blogging back then, but I'm rededicating myself to sharing what I've learned over a 32 year DJ career... Most of what's written in this article still applies today. Read more below...</p><p><a class="no-pjax" href="https://djauthority.wordpress.com/" data-link-type="url" contents="How To Reduce Stress AND MAXIMIZE Time At Your Wedding Reception">https://djauthority.wordpress.com/</a></p>DJs AND MCs, LLCtag:djsandmcs.com,2005:Post/56287802019-02-05T12:05:49-08:002023-11-21T01:28:55-08:00DJ Jason Aquino Returns To The Mid-Winter Gala!<p>Being the DJ for this event is something I'm extremely proud of. First of all...not anybody who wants to go to this party can just buy a ticket...you have to be invited. Secondly, this was my second invitation to play at this annual event! After I played at my first Mid-winter Gala...I had a great sense of accomplishment, because I knew that I threw down on that party and people would always remember it. Being invited back for a second year really validated those feelings for me. I'm very thankful to Jr. Committee for the opportunity they gave me. They could've hired anybody they wanted...and they picked me...twice! The thumbnail photo is the DJ Booth I used for the event...read more about the party below.</p><p><a class="no-pjax" href="https://www.sfgate.com/sfsocial/slideshow/FAMSF-s-Mid-Winter-Gala-58213.php" data-link-type="url" contents="DJs AND MCs returns to the Mid Winter Gala">https://www.sfgate.com/sfsocial/slideshow/FAMSF-s-Mid-Winter-Gala-58213.php</a></p>DJs AND MCs, LLCtag:djsandmcs.com,2005:Post/56287312019-02-05T11:24:45-08:002023-03-14T08:02:11-07:00DJ Jason Aquino plays opening set at Sean Parker's Party<p>This night was definitely one of the "Best Parties Ever" that I've played at or been to. I was a lucky last minute add to the line-up, because I was a local, the event planners new me, and somebody had to open up for all these stars. I went on for about 2 hours to set the vibe with an eclectic mix of current music...and then I got to network. The opportunity to be back stage with the other "ARTISTS" was beyond cool! There's no actual mention of me in the Billboard article, because I was never supposed to be there...but the personal satisfaction of being invited and people appreciating my set was very rewarding. My only "proof" is the thumbnail photo that someone took of me...it's not the best quality, but it's REAL!</p><p> </p><p><a class="no-pjax" href="https://www.billboard.com/biz/articles/news/1166915/killers-snoop-dogg-janes-addiction-rock-sean-parkers-f8-conferenceparty" data-link-type="url" contents="DJ Jason Aquino Spins Opening Set For Spotify Launch Party">https://www.billboard.com/biz/articles/news/1166915/killers-snoop-dogg-janes-addiction-rock-sean-parkers-f8-conferenceparty</a></p>DJs AND MCs, LLCtag:djsandmcs.com,2005:Post/56285812019-02-05T10:40:00-08:002023-03-14T07:59:41-07:00DJs AND MCs, featuring Jason Aquino rocks the SF Mid-Winter Gala<p>This party was an epic night for me! I have been invited to DJ for various San Francisco Socialites before...but this annual party is definitely one of the most prestigious events anyone will ever attend. Obviously, I was a little nervous before going on because I wanted to make a good impression. I started my set off with Pitbull & Christina Aguilera's "Feel This Moment"...which is exactly what i did. At that time, that song had just dropped and I felt the lyrics were a perfect description of what was going on. I just closed my eyes and swayed to the Christina's opening acapella portion of the song and prayed everyone would get up and dance. When the beat hit...everyone came out to the floor...and the party was on! It was nonstop dancing all night...and I met a lot a great people. Read more below...I have an honorable mention in the article.</p><p><a class="no-pjax" href="https://www.sfgate.com/living/article/Mid-Winter-Gala-brightens-de-Young-2389537.php" data-link-type="url" contents="DJs AND MCs, featuring Jason Aquino rocks the Mid-winter Gala">https://www.sfgate.com/living/article/Mid-Winter-Gala-brightens-de-Young-2389537.php</a></p><p> </p>DJs AND MCs, LLC